Bismarck Named One of 257 “Playful City USA” Communities

Being able to play is critical to a community’s health, and especially to the health of children. Bismarck, along with 256 other cities and towns across the country, has been named a Playful City USA. The honor comes from the national non-profit KaBOOM!, recognizing Bismarck for its focus on play and the work involved in creating a kid-friendly, family-friendly community.

The KaBOOM! Playful City USA program honors communities across America that take action to ensure that all children have easy access to balanced and active play in their communities.

Cities being recognized span every region of the country, and include Tucson, AZ, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Boulder, CO and Bismarck. This is Bismarck’s seventh designation as a Playful City, and the only North Dakota community with the designation for 2016.

This Playful City USA designation comes on the heels of Bismarck Parks and Recreation District’s being named one of four finalists for the prestigious 2016 National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management.